This blog has beenfascinated, appalled, and otherwise dumbfounded in the past by Jesus art, which is rarely inspirational and often inappropriate. Today we have a whole new painting to discuss.

Behold: Jesus, the Founding Father of America and He Who Apparently Dictated the U.S. Constitution from On High

Besides the idea of a glowing Jesus founding his own nation in the form of the U.S. — and the existence of Satan crouching in front of Alexander Hamilton (see right side of the picture), and the lawyer greedily counting his $100 bills right out there in sight of the Son of God (see bottom right) — there are two other awesome things associated with this painting, which is by artist John McNaughton.

1. McNaughton has helpfully providedan interactive mouse-over feature where you can view, up close, each of the America-representing people in the painting. Some are symbolic. Others are prominent figures from our nation’s past. Along with these close-ups, we get the artist’s thoughts behind their symbolism. For example, see the mommy and baby to Jesus’ right? The lady holding her palm up? According to the artist, “She holds her hand out which has two meanings. First, she is recognizing Christ and second she is releasing her son to come forth and touch the Constitution. A mother’s role in raising up the next generation is immeasurable.”

2. The brilliant minds at Shortpacked! recognized some silliness in some of these descriptions (really!) and created their own interactive mouse-over feature, with brand-new captions and descriptions. It is worth viewing because it is very, very funny. For instance, see Abe Lincoln down on one knee to Jesus’ left? Their description: “He was the 16th president of the United States. He led the country through the Civil War and was assassinated in his second term of office. He also totally wants to start a barbershop quartet with Washington, Adams, and Hamilton.” Look at the artist’s version first, then head here.

I’m sorry. I’ve gotten in trouble before for making fun of someone’s heartfelt attempt to express something about Jesus via art. But this is just too unintentionally funny. I mean, the evil college professor is clutching a copy of Origin of the Species! (It represents, according to the artist, “the liberal left’s control of our educational system.”) The Supreme Court justice is weeping for his sins! All the black heroes are hidden in the back! And Davy Crockett is wearing a coonskin cap!

Jason Boyett

Jason Boyett is a writer, speaker, and the author of several books, including O Me of Little Faith (Zondervan), and the Pocket Guide series (Jossey-Bass). His work has appeared in Salon, Paste, The Daily Beast, Relevant, and a variety of other publications. He has also appeared on the History Channel and National Geographic Channel. Jason lives in Texas with his wife and two kids. Follow him at twitter and jasonboyett.com.